Bilberry for the Eyes: Are You Taking Advantage Of This Overlooked Supplement?

Since the 16th century people have been using bilberries for the eyes.

What is it and does it improve eyesight?

It grows as a perennial shrub in damp woodlands in various climates. There are many different species throughout the world. They are also known as whortleberries and blaeberries. They are related to the more commonly known berries, the blueberry, the huckleberry and the cranberry.

Bilberries can be eaten as a fruit or made into an extract. The fruit looks and tastes very much like the blueberry. Both the fruit and the leaves are rich in anthocyanidins and flavonoids which makes it a powerful antioxidant. Studies have shown that when taking this herb it improves vision and can help with eye diseases, such as, glaucoma, myopia, retinitis, pigmentosa, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts. It seems to be especially effective when combined with lutein. Bilberry contains Vitamins A and C and other nutrients which provide antioxidant protection helping to prevent damage to the eyes.

The reason why it is said that bilberries can help protect the eye is that it strengthens the tiny capillaries that affect vision. Often these capillaries are damaged by hypertension and diabetes. So anthocyanidins in the bilberry increase the microcirculation in the eye.
The benefits and uses of bilberry go far beyond helping with visual problems. The extract is considered to be very safe. The leaves can be used like the Uva Ursi or bearberry leaves which was used by Native Americans as a remedy for urinary tract infections. Bilberry fruit also contains high concentrations of tannins which is a substance that acts as an anti-inflammatory and an astringent.

There have been testimonials from diabetic-dependent insulin users who then developed diabetic retinopathy. Once taking bilberry capsules along with lutein as well as improving their diets they were able to reverse their retinopathy. They note that it is essential to continue monitoring one’s blood sugar.

Refer to our other articles on “Improve Your Eyesight with Herbs, Vitamins and Minerals” besides the article you have just read on Bilberry for the eyes, as they can make you more aware of what many are doing to improve their vision naturally.